Couple files claim of possible lawsuit

A Cayuga couple filed a notice of claim of a possible lawsuit Friday against Cayuga County, the Cayuga County Sheriff's Office and a number of sheriff's officials. In the claim, David and Samantha Bortle state that members of the office used excessive force when they arrested David on June 28.

At the time of his arrest, David Bortle was punched and forced to the ground by deputies, which resulted in two fractured ribs, as well as shock, mental anguish and humiliation for both he and his wife, the claim states. The claim also states that Bortle was wearing a neck brace as a result of prior neck surgery at the time of his arrest.

After the arrest, David Bortle was charged with third-degree criminal mischief, fourth-degree stalking and resisting arrest.

No estimate for monetary damages was offered in the claim. The claimants' attorney, Thomas Wolff did not return calls for comment, nor did Cayuga County Attorney Fred Westphal.

Man charged with jewelry theft

A man was arrested Monday after a piece of stolen jewelry was found in his possession, police said. According to the Auburn Police Department, Vernon James Dixon, 51, who lives at 8 Fort Street Apt 3, was taken into custody at 8 p.m. and was charged with third-degree grand larceny, a felony.

On Aug. 3, a woman who named Dixon as an acquaintance, told police that two of her gold bracelets with a total value of $2,400 had been stolen. According to police, Dixon saw the jewelry during a visit and apparently came back to the residence to take the bracelets when she was not there.

Dixon was wearing what was later identified as one of the two missing bracelets when police questioned him, according to police. The second bracelet has not been located.

Dempsey says he's still a candidate

As he previously indicated, Auburn city councilor David Dempsey said he would continue to run on the Independence line for Auburn mayor.

Dempsey had stated his intention to continue his campaign no matter the outcome of the Democratic primary, which was Sept. 18. A statement released Tuesday said he was committed to the race and having his name on the ballot for the Nov. 6 election.

Michael Quill received 971 votes and Dempsey had 495 in last week's Democratic primary. The official results, which include absentee ballots, will be released later this week.

Firefighters union backs Budelmann

The Auburn Firefighters Union has endorsed Chief Assistant District Attorney Jon Budelmann's candidacy for Cayuga County district attorney.

Local 1446 Union President Steve Parker announced the group's endorsement of Budelmann's candidacy is a reflection of the members' confidence in Budelmann.

- From staff reports